This article is part of our ongoing series reflecting on the key themes highlighted in the 2025 National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States broadcast. In the previous installment, we explored the broadcast’s message of the pressing issues facing American society today and the vital call for justice. Another article focused on the call to unity, renewal, and humanity’s collective responsibility to address societal challenges.
A powerful theme that stood out from the Broadcast was the vital role of youth in shaping a more just, spiritually grounded society. While much has been said in broader culture about the difficulties young people face today, the Bahá’í perspective adds a note of both realism and hope—and a call to action.
“Youth are experiencing an epidemic of loneliness, anxiety, and depression,” noted a segment of the broadcast. It acknowledged the critical concerns many observers have—some doubting the decision-making abilities of youth, others focusing solely on their struggles without helping to unlock their potential. Yet, the Bahá’í community sees something else entirely: when young people internalize the principle of the oneness of humanity, they are stirred by a longing to serve society. They see themselves not just as the leaders of tomorrow, but as protagonists of change today.
“Transformative change becomes the work of their generation,” the message emphasized, “and the work of all generations to come.”
Indeed, across the United States, youth within and around the Bahá’í community are embracing that responsibility. They are participating in meaningful conversations, launching service projects, and forging networks of friendship rooted in shared spiritual values. From classrooms and neighborhoods to national platforms, the impact of these youth is unmistakable.
A particularly moving example of this spirit was found in the youth conferences held throughout the country. These gatherings offered young people—Bahá’ís and their friends alike—a space to reflect, consult, and plan for releasing the society-building powers of the Bahá’í teachings. “We’ve really talked about the power that youth have in this day and age,” said one attendee. “Our unique gifts are helping us bring humanity forward.”
Another participant described how their group explored Bahá’u’lláh’s vision for humanity and the capacities young people need to cultivate in order to effectively serve. “We talked about universal peace… how we as youth can empower other youth to strive for building a more positive community, a community based on principles like truthfulness and love.”
These conferences weren’t just meaningful in content—they were also profoundly welcoming. “The people are so kind,” one friend of the Faith said. “It’s just such a welcoming community… you want to be friends with everyone, and they want to be friends with you.” Others remarked how impressed they were by the consultative spirit and the unique environment of mutual learning and spiritual inquiry.
The preparation and dedication that went into creating such spaces also reflected the growing leadership and initiative of youth themselves. One young organizer shared the team’s heartfelt aim: “We all had this deep desire that anyone who wanted to walk through the door would be able to walk through and feel a safe space… Seeing all the youth’s smiles and laughter… made all the consultation feel so rich.”
This spirit of empowered youth finds strong affirmation in the guidance of the Universal House of Justice, the international governing body of the Bahá’í Faith. In a recent message, it stated:
“We are conscious of how much vibrancy and strength is generated in any society by its youth being awakened to the vision of Bahá’u’lláh and becoming protagonists of the Plan. And so, with what immense kindliness, courage, and complete reliance on God must Bahá’í youth resolve to reach out to their peers and bring them into this work! All must surge, but the youth must soar.”
That soaring is already visible. Youth from all walks of life are planting the seeds of unity and service, watching them grow into trees that offer fruit for generations to come. “I think youth can change the world,” said one participant. “We have such a big responsibility… but also we come at it with so much energy that it’s almost like nothing can stop us.”
As one youth concluded, quoting the Bahá’í Writings:
“Let your heart burn with loving kindness for all who may cross your path.”
